Indiana Residential Care Assistance Program (RCAP)

Program Description

The Indiana Residential Care Assistance Program (RCAP) is a state funded program that provides financial support to elderly, blind, or disabled Indiana residents who cannot live alone. Eligible individuals must live in (or be willing to move into) a residential care facility or housing that is licensed by the Indiana State Department of Health and has an approved RCAP contract from the Indiana Family Social Services Administration. Division of Aging.

The financial assistance under this program may cover the cost of housing, food, and laundry. Select services, such as care coordination, may also be provided for those who need assistance yet do not need the level of care required to live in a nursing home.

Eligibility Guidelines

In order to participate in the Indiana Residential Care Assistance Program, an individual must meet several criteria.

General Requirements

• At least 65 years old, OR blind or disabled.
• An Indiana resident.
• Living in or moving to an approved and licensed housing community.
• Must NOT meet the functional criteria established by Medicaid needed to live in a nursing home. In other words, the individual must have care needs on par with those in independent living or assisted living communities, not on par with those in nursing homes. Persons who have greater needs may wish to explore the Aged and Disabled Waiver. 
• Must be receiving either Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). 

Financial Requirements

Income Limits
For 2023, two income limits exist depending on the type of residence:

• Licensed RCAP facility: $1,158.01 a month
• County home: $1,239.48 a month.

Asset Limits
The countable asset limit for a single applicant is $2,000, which includes cash, bank accounts, IRAs, stocks, and bonds. The asset limit for a participant living with a spouse is $3,000.

Benefits and Services

Indiana residents who are eligible for the Indiana Residential Care Assistance Program receive financial assistance in the form of an approved daily allowance, which is set up by the Division of Aging. This aids in covering the cost of housing, meals, and laundry at RCAP-approved housing facilities.

Benefits may also include care coordination for those who need a higher level of care. Care coordination can include medication reminders, assessing needs and setting goals, sharing patient information with pertinent parties, and coordinating appointments. 

How to Apply / Learn More

An RCAP facility will assist in the application process, or an applicant’s loved one or family member can assist. An application can be downloaded here.

All required documentation must be submitted with the application, otherwise the application will be denied. Completed applications and all documents can be emailed here: [email protected].

For more information about the Indiana Residential Care Assistance Program, visit the Division of Aging site under the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. You can also contact your local Area Agency on Aging for additional information.

A wait list may exist for this program.